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Living with Asthma

I am asthmatic and with our recent off-and-on heat spells, my asthma attacks have become quite frequent, leaving me constantly searching for new ways to ward off an attack. Feeling discouraged, I immediately when to the internet and did some extensive research. Below is some of the information I’d like to share with all of you. Please remember to contact your doctor before attempting anything new.

I am asthmatic and with our recent off-and-on heat spells, my asthma attacks have become quite frequent, leaving me constantly searching for new ways to ward off an attack. Feeling discouraged, I immediately when to the internet and did some extensive research. Below is some of the information I’d like to share with all of you. Please remember to contact your doctor before attempting anything new.

Be smart. Remember to take your controller medication and ALWAYS keep that emergency inhaler with you at all times.

Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate! Drinks lots of water as it helps to thin out mucus.

Control your environment. Environmental triggers such as dust mites, pet dander and cigarette smoke can trigger an attack. Be mindful of what triggers an attack for you. My triggers are cigarette smoke, excessive heat, certain perfumes, dairy products and chocolate. Yes, chocolate! Though this was very devastating at first, I have learned how to live a life without chocolate. It can be done!

Learn the power of citrus fruits. Citrus fruits, particularly grapefruit, are of great benefit as they help clear the accumulated mucus in the bronchial tube. They also help bring new mucus forming elements to the tubes via the bloodstream.

Eat Healthy. There is no specific diet for asthma, but the best thing to do is eat 3 light meals per day, combining fruits, vegetables and whole grains. You should especially incorporate citrus fruits, berries and melons into your diet, but white sugar should be avoided. Foods such as dairy products, shrimp and shellfish can trigger an asthma attack and should be avoided.

Practice deep breathing. Meditation or yoga, especially pranayama exercises which involve deep breathing, can help control asthma to a large extent.

Being proactive with asthma is the way to go. Stay clear of your triggers and try a yoga class!

Enjoy your summer!

Blog written by Maria Osnowitz
I am 54 years old, married, and the mother of two grown children. I have been unemployed since June of 2009, and since then have...